The Yankees’ $218 million free agent signing indeed will be regarded as the new staff ace, but it’s unlikely two-time All-Star Max Fried will debut in pinstripes on Opening Day.

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While the loss of long-time ace Gerrit Cole has no doubt harmed the New York Yankees' hopes in 2025 and stripped them from a steadying presence at the front of the rotation, they do have another ace ready to step into that particular breach.

The New York Yankees more than likely signed Max Fried because they knew their fate with Gerrit Cole (especially after his opt out situation).

Max Fried is now the de facto ace for the New York Yankees. Gerrit Cole is going to miss the entire 2025 season due to Tommy John surgery, and up-and-comer Luis Gil — the reigning AL Rookie of the Year — is going to miss at least three months with a lat strain.